Sign In
By signing in or creating an account, you agree with Associated Broadcasting Company's Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
By signing in or creating an account, you agree with Associated Broadcasting Company's Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
New Delhi: The national capital city of Delhi witnessed a shocking theft inside the Red Fort complex during a Jain religious ceremony, where a sacred vessel worth nearly Rs 1 crore vanished amidst the commotion. The kalash, brought daily for worship by businessman Sudhir Jain, disappeared from the stage while Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was present as a guest of honour.
As per the reported information, the kalash was crafted from 760 grams of gold and embedded with 150 grams of diamonds, rubies and emeralds. It was stolen on September 2 during the ongoing Jain ritual. However, Delhi Police disclosed details of the case only on September 6, after reviewing CCTV recordings that captured the suspect’s movements.
Investigators have identified the culprit and expressed confidence that an arrest is imminent.
According to temple manager Punit Kumar Jain, the same suspect has been linked to several other thefts at Jain temples across Delhi in recent years. “The financial value may be immense, but spiritually, the vessel is priceless for us,” he said. He added that video footage from multiple incidents clearly shows the same man, sometimes disguised as a priest and at other times dressed in plain clothing.
Community members believe the thefts form part of a targeted pattern against Jain temples, given the repeated nature of the crimes. Police have gathered all CCTV evidence and are intensifying efforts to apprehend the accused.
The religious programme, organised by the Jain community, is being held at 15 August Park within the Red Fort grounds and is scheduled to continue until September 9.
From what has been informed, for the Jain community, the loss goes far beyond material worth. The kalash represented not only its price but also deep religious significance, and its disappearance has left devotees shocked even as prayers at the Red Fort gathering continue.
